Allspice

Other Names

Associations

Warnings

Allspice is believed to be safe, although as with any herb it should only be used in moderation.

Description

Allspice generally refers to a spice made from dried fruit of the Pimenta Dioica plant, which itself can be called Allspice. The plant can grow to 12m and is found in many warm parts of the world. It has leathery oval leaves with smooth edges and clusters of small white flowers on fine stalks which are replaced by small fruit at the end of the summer. These are picked when they are unripe and look like little green berries.

The fruit is traditionally dried in the sun, and as the berries dry they turn brown to resemble large peppercorns, hence some of the alternative names for Allspice; ‘Jamaican Pepper’ and ‘Myrtle Pepper’. They were given their common name by the English in the C17th, who thought the flavour was a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg and clove.

Health

A long time ago ‘Oil of Pimento’ was made from Allspice to aid digestion and cure flatulence problems, and even in modern times this herb is used to alleviate gas and colic. It can also be used in a paste to treat bruises or muscle pains, and can act as a local anasthetic and antiseptic. It is also a source of natural anti-oxidants.

Magic

Allspice is great for attracting luck – in money or general life. You can also use Allspice to promote healing.